Moderate
Overview
Massachusetts briefly banned registration of non-FMVSS vehicles but reversed course in September 2024. Imports are now registerable, but the state’s strict annual safety inspection adds complexity.
Key Requirements
- Ban reversed — as of September 2024, 25+ year old imports are accepted with federal documentation (HS-7, EPA 3520-1).
- Annual safety inspection — strict, covering brakes, lights, tires, steering, exhaust, glass and body.
- Emissions — OBD-II for 1996+ vehicles. Visual inspection for older vehicles.
- Titling — standard process; bring complete import documentation.
Notes for European Imports
The reversal is recent, so some RMV offices may not be fully up to speed. Bring printed documentation of the policy change. DOT lighting conversion is required for the safety inspection.
Recommendation
Now doable, but bring thorough documentation and budget for lighting modifications. Pre-1996 vehicles skip OBD-II testing.